What is carers week?

Posted by: Surgery News - Posted on:

Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.

The campaign is brought to life by thousands of individuals and organisations who come together to provide support for carers, run activities, highlight the vital role carers play in our communities and draw attention to just how important caring is.

We as a surgery are keen to identify our patients who are playing this role, and support them wherever we can.

Our social prescriber, Ebrahim Ogasia is our carers champion and he can support carers in a number of ways, he can help putting you in touch with carers organisations who can help with financial and equipment support, he can help put you in touch with other carers and he can help with your mental wellbeing and/or physical health. If you are a carer and would like some additional help or support please contact our reception team and ask for an appointment with our social prescriber.

Are you a carer?

A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, or who needs extra help as they grow older. It isn’t someone who volunteers or is employed to provide support.

Even children and young people can be carers.

Health check-ups

Life can become very hectic especially if you have lots of caring responsbilities, but it’s important not to neglect your own health needs. Attending appointments, check-ups and screenings is vital for yourself as well as any loved ones.

If you have not been to the practice for some time, why not arrange a health check? We will check your blood pressure, weight and urine as well as a general discussion about your health. Your pharmacist can also help.

Further information for carers

Carers may also find the following resources useful:

Carers Count Kirklees

My Wellbeing Course (including Carers Support Sessions) | Kirklees Wellness Service

Support for carers | Kirklees Council

We’re here to make life better for carers – Carers UK